In recent issues we discussed the Zero Rupee anti-corruption notes in use by activists in India. Some have wondered how to acquire
examples of these notes for their collections. Reader Kavan Ratnatunga of Sri Lanka notes that some are for sale on the web site of
dealer Joel Anderson. Here are images and text from the site. -Editor

Zero Rupee Anti-Corruption Note

2009 India 50 Rupees Banknote

Bribes, graft and corruption has been is a major issue in India. Citizens are tired of having to pay bribes to government officials in
order for them to do their job. Recently a number of anti-corruption groups have been rising up throughout the country. One of these
groups, called 5th Pillar, issued these Zero Rupee anti-corruption notes.

The front of the note is modeled after the 50 Rupee note, which is often used for small bribes. The back provides information about
the organization and its goals in Hindi and English. The idea is to embarrass government officials that ask for bribes by giving them one
of these anti-corruption notes.

The notes have been distributed throughout India and the program appears to be getting some positive results. It has won international
acclaim and is spawning imitators in other nations with a problem with corruption.

We offer both the Zero Rupee note and the real 50 Rupee note upon which it was modeled. Both feature Mahatma Gandhi.

The 50 Rupee note was sold out when i checked the site, but I've shown both images here for comparison. -Editor